Community Stories

Seattle is mosaic of cultures and diverse communities, with an endless supply of inspiring tales to share. Community Stories presents this rich tapestry -- the people, the neighborhoods, the communities, relevant issues, cultural traditions and rich histories that make each of us unique. Learn more about your neighbors on Community Stories.

To submit story input and for further information about Community Stories, please contact: Shannon Gee, Community Stories Senior Producer, (206) 233-3982, shannon.gee@seattle.gov

Community Stories: An American Hero - Frank Nishimura

Community Stories: An American Hero - Frank Nishimura

11/11/201623:28

This animated short film tells the story of World War II veteran Frank Nishimura and is based on the graphic novel "Fighting for America: Nisei Soldiers," written by Lawrence Matsuda and illustrated by Matt Sasaki. Frank grew up in Seattle where his family ran hotels, including the Puget Sound Hotel. With Executive Order 9066, which set in motion the expulsion of Japanese Americans from the West Coast, the Nishimuras moved to Eastern Washington avoiding imprisonment. Frank volunteered to join the U.S Army as part of the 442nd/100th Battalion, where he made new friends and strong connections. Frank saw heavy combat in France and Italy and was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star among others. He was later awarded the French National Order of the Legion of Honor and the Congressional Gold Medal.

The film was produced in partnership with the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience and the Seattle NVC Foundation as part of the State of Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction's Kip Tokuda Memorial Washington Civil Liberties Public Education Program.